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 Needless to say, things have been very confusing in 2020. And, its not just: Do we wear a mask outside, or do we not?
(I just learned that in NJ we now have to— if outside in groups where it is hard to socially distance.) Confusion around what is or isn’t appropriate in the dating world is at an all-time-high. Also, there are singles-who wanted love, marriage, and a family yesterday-who now think they have to wait. And, there are others taking matters into their own hands in totally unconventional ways. The truth is: You don’t have to wait for the pandemic to end, to have “your person” show up at your door, or even for the perfect partner to get started on the baby-making. You can start dating now—wherever you are. Just like an entrepreneur doesn’t need the most innovative, creative, one of a kind website to get started selling products or services in today’s marketplace, you don’t need to have the perfect online dating profile, be at your target weight, or have an extra 20K in the bank before you start your search for love. Do not let the perception that you need to have it all together-or that the timing be perfect- for you to enter the dating scene, to stop you from entering it.You have the power to get what you want in your love life. You always did. If you need some help figuring it all out during these challenging times, you are not alone. For you, I am I'm co-hosting another webinar on how to date during the pandemic and beyond. This time I am offering it for free, because.... People need help, yo. Sign up here, and be well.
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 Its Fridaaaay! I'm about to have another "TGIF" break of a moment with some sunshine and a view from my rooftop, but before I do....
Just wanted to share some exciting news--that you may have already caught wind of! As many of you know, I've been teaching entrepreneurs how to start and run a matchmaking business for several years now through Matchmaking Institute. Of course, I've also been vetting singles as a matchmaker for a whooping fifteen, and now I am going to give up all my secrets to the single ladies with my all- new on-demand Master Class, "How To Vet Like A Matchmaker & Find Your Gem Online". On Sunday, June 28th, I will launch an hour long class (with a recording that will be sent via email) so that single women everywhere could learn how to to screen online dating prospects for authenticity, honesty, trustworthiness, and compatibility. My mission is to help women never (or never again!) waste their time and emotional energy on a counterfeit relationship. This is a cause I feel very passionate about, and I know the value of this product is priceless! What can be more important than not breaking your heart and wasting your life with Mr. Wrong? But for kickoff, I am actually offering it at half price so that I can help more women find their gem in the trenches of the online dating world. I hope you'll check it out here to gift to yourself or any single woman you know! Are you one of the luck men or women who has already found your potential gem/gem that you are currently dating or in a relationship with? I have got your covered too---just in time for your next Date Night! Hopefully, that is sooner rather than later with the pandemic and all. Truthfully, I am seeing some people who have lost the art of dating! So in that spirit, here are my Top Ten Dating Dos' & Don'ts. You're welcome.  Stop being so THIRSTY! Craving the attention from other people that you should be giving yourself. Do NOT text him back again when he hasn't responded for the third time.
Refuse to do ALL the work in the relationship while she does nothing in return. Whatever your disappointing situation might be, just take a moment to remind yourself-as often as necessary- YOU ARE WORTH MORE THAN THIS! True happiness comes from within. You do not need someone else to validate your existence. As I told the reporter from Montclair Local who featured me in this story, "Love and dating during the pandemic": Singles are realizing that, they, are for the most part, all they’ve got! Couples are understanding that having a partner is no guarantee of happiness. And these days, if your partner is an essential worker or first responder, things can be even more challenging. Check out my quick tips in my new home video "Navigating a relationship with first responders" here. Ultimately, whether you are single or coupled, it is your responsibility to make yourself happy. I think happiness is a choice—especially for those of us who are not struggling with severe depression or other mental illness. Choose Happy. Today! If you are single and need some help being happy in your love life-and have not already signed up for my live webinar- Check out: "Dating, Relationships, & Sex: How Singles Can Thrive During The Pandemic & Beyond", happening Sunday, June 7th, at 8PM EST, here.  For many of us, it has now been more than forty days of quarantine, and, well, its getting real! As the Covid 19 pandemic is changing the world as we know it, the stay-at-home orders are making a mark on our love life in the collective. As I continue to provide virtual dating and relationship coaching-as well as tele-therapy- for singles and couples, I’m learning a lot about the dating and relationship climate during these unprecedented times.
Here are some of the trends that I have seen: 1.The desire for love and connection really is here to stay, but the ways in which it is being expressed is definitely changing. Yes, people are still swiping away and figuring out how to form romantic connections with video chats, phone calls, text messages, surprise deliveries, socially distant walks, drive-by celebrations, and even drones. Since you can’t chase someone down and make-out in the airport right now-like you would if you were the star of a romantic comedy, of course- it is time to get creative. Masks: Required! 2. Common sense still applies. Single ladies: If he’s just not that into you, he’s just not that into you—and, you will be able to tell. Even if you aren’t quarantined together. If you want a reminder for your refrigerator, these are the things a relationship-oriented man with genuine interest in you should be doing during the early stages of dating. 3. People are seeing the good in their situation—no matter what their status. Some singles are using the time to develop themselves, and be glad they aren’t quarantined with their ex! Others are realizing the benefits of dating from home. No commute. No bill. No pants with zippers. No awkward kiss goodnight. Some couples are realizing that they haven’t killed each other yet; to their amazement, they actually kind of like the bond that develops from being “safe at home” 24/7! 4. That being said, some people are getting really, really, frustrated with their partner. The longer they are home together, the more those annoying habits become more and more annoying! Balancing the “we” time with the “me” time can be extra challenging when one day looks the same as the next, and the weeks kind of just blur together. Fundamental differences are highlighted; emotions are strong. Tension, high. 5. Communication is getting awkward for everyone. For those doing virtual dating, it is more challenging than ever not to turn their video dates into job interviews! Once people do manage to start chatting regularly with someone they may like, it can be hard to keep the conversation going with new romantic prospect. Some who are living simply feel here’s only so many times you can ask what one made for dinner or watched on Netflix. Again, creativity is king here—as is having a personality. No one can rely on just looks anymore; some are discovering they really don’t know how to have meaningful conversations with strangers. Sadly, others are finding out that they have nothing to talk about with the person who has been sleeping next to them for the past two decades. Still others say it is hard to tell the new partner sitting right next to them that they just want them to……go away. All of this is pretty darn normal during quarantine life, but for some, the impact on their dating or relationship is more problematic than for others. Yes, this too shall pass, but in the meantime…… If you need help coping, there’s good news: I am offering complimentary consultations for all new potential dating and relationship coaching clients and discounted sessions for everyone during the pandemic and into the near future. Book your strategy session here.  The other day, I announced on my social media that it was official: I am working from home indefinitely for all of my business ventures!
Yes, I feel grateful that I am still able to help flatten the curve-even if it decreases my revenue- by offering remote services including: -Phone & Video-based dating and relationship coaching for singles and couples -Tele-therapy for singles, couples, and families -Virtual matchmaking for singles -Teaching an online training course to aspiring matchmakers and reviewing their business plans at Matchmaking Institute. The practice of gratitude is something that I have talked about a lot to my clients and followers. Its for you, its for me, its for everyone! Its even for my clients who are so sweetly offering me these lovely, unsolicited testimonials! Gratitude is especially for us during uncertain times like these of the coronavirus pandemic. I am seeing that some people need it more than ever.In a sense, I feel that I am on the front lines too, because, I am hearing first person accounts of how singles and couples are struggling—whether alone or with their partner. At this time, I challenge you all to express gratitude. Every morning, write down three things that you are grateful for. If you are frustrated with your partner, write down three things that you grateful for about him or her. (This could really prevent you from killing each other during quarantine!) Do this for thirty days. See the difference. And, in the meantime, of course, stay as positive as you can. You got this!  We are in some interesting times, indeed, in the United States and globally.
Like many small businesses, at Rachel Russo Relationships, I am trying to find a better way to serve singles who may be concerned about exposure to the coronavirus. Virtual dating, anyone? Remote coaching sessions to discuss how to actually succeed at a virtual date in an age in which people have forgotten how to talk on the phone? People have been asking my thoughts on how coronavirus is impacting the dating world. I will start with this: If you are single and think there is ever a good time to hook up with a random stranger from Tinder, it should not be now! Last week, I wasn't so sure how love lives would be impacted. This week, as I have done more research on the health concerns, have seen the way people and governments are handling this worldwide, and considered the economic consequences: Yes, I think that some people will be impacted in a considerable way---especially in areas where there has been real exposure. So, for once, I agree with Tinder, in that they issued a health-comes-first message. I know a lot of people are panicking and a lot of people are minimizing this. However, for those of us with autoimmune issues, those of us who are older, and those of us who care enough not to spread a disease in their family and community: It isn't always just "wash your hands for twenty seconds". I was sadden to see that there was a record jump in coronavirus infections in Italy yesterday, and to hear what is going on within the healthcare system there. As an Italian American, I know that Italians are strong, and I feel they are doing the right thing with country wide lockdowns. I think other countries should consider following their lead, and, that, we in the US shouldn’t be foolish enough to believe that the virus is not a real threat. We should all do our part to prevent the spread of illness and impact on our communities. Personally, I would not mind being quarantined for a couple weeks if it was going to help. (As long as I have WiFi!) Yes, flirting in 2020 may be: “Anyone want to get quarantined with me?!😉” Its, for many of us, time to #PrayForItaly and #PrayForTheWorld. So, I ask you to think about how the coronavirus may be impacting people's love lives. Do you have any ideas for how I may be able to better serve you and/or others? Feel free to email me some ideas at Rachel@RachelRusso.com But, mostly, think of this: Why not prepare for the worst, hope for the best, and, of, course, wash our hands for thirty seconds?  So I have some exciting news to share! At Rachel Russo Relationships, I've recently launched a brand-new product on my Services page: Email Coaching!
I created this for anyone who wishes they could have dating and relationship advice from a professional, at an affordable price, on demand. If you could really use some extra hand-holding in your love life-and your friends and family aren't cutting it, aren't objective enough, or are sick and tired of hearing your dating mishaps and relationships sagas- I think you are going to love, love, love this! Check this out: You can can have me in your inbox every single day, answering all of your burning questions! This is a month-to-month-service that you can try out one month at a time for an investment of five hundred dollars. What's included? Other than life-changing advice that can help you cope and actually learn to love your love life--no matter what your status? Well, you can email up to three questions per day, every day if you wish to. I will send you detailed, personalized, responses in a timely fashion--even on the weekends! Don't like writing? Would you prefer to listen to-instead of read-my advice? You are in luck, because you can alternately send me voice notes, and I'll answer you back--in voice notes. My current clients are really appreciating this new service-and the accountability it creates-and I am thrilled to extend this special offer to you! If you are ready to get started, you can sign up for Email Coaching here and send your first round of email questions-or phone number for voice notes-to Rachel@RachelRusso.com. If you have any questions about Email Coaching, feel free to message me or schedule a complimentary consultation before signing up. Can't wait to discover how what I know can help you have everything that you've always wanted--in love!  Can we talk about #HalftimeShow2020?
With a look at social media, I read way too many posts from both men and women-honestly more from men-that included both positive and negative comments on the physical appearance of both JLo & Shakira. I’m all for free speech, but some of the negative comments from men on my Facebook page caused me to delete some of my “friends”. (The purge felt good!) Our culture’s hyper-focus on womens’ bodies and overall appearance hurts both women, men, and the state of our romantic relationships. Of course, it isn’t just men who are criticizing women in this way. Judging by my feed, more men were doing this last night. Maybe its just that more were watching The Super Bowl and posting about it. Maybe women were watching and criticizing privately? I don’t know. But I do know that this form of toxic masculinity is real. And that a lot of women are also guilty of accepting this and making such comments themselves. When I see women criticizing other women in this way, it is a whole other kind of maddening! As if we don’t get enough criticism from men, we have to do it to ourselves —and publicly while we are at it? This is no bueno. This type of dialogue is this stuff that helps make women with low self-esteem, poor body image, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and tolerance for relationship abuse. This is a good time for me to say once again: We ladies need to support each other instead of tearing each other down! I am helping to do my part, this Saturday, February 8th, by co-hosting a special event, Galentine’s Day 2020, for single women looking for love, with my friend & colleague, Love Coach Junie Moon. The event takes place in the Valley & Bloom Lounge in Montclair, from 4-6PM. We will be sharing all we know that can help women stay away from limiting beliefs, unhealthy behaviors, and toxic men so that they can find and keep a healthy and amazing relationship! To learn more about our event and buy tickets, check out our the link here.  Sixteen days into 2020, and I have some exciting announcements for you! There will be a lot of changes for me personally and professionally this year and throughout the decade. I am happy to have you along for the ride! If you are not already following my journey, feel free to do so on Instagram or Facebook.
 Happy New Year & Best Wishes for "The Roaring 20s" from our family to yours! Also, today is World Introvert Day; so a special shout out to all the introverts among us who are likely dying to recharge after all the craziness of the holiday season!
For the "single" introvert: If you haven't tried professional matchmaking, it could be a dream for you! With personalized introductions, you don't have to have awkward small talk with people you meet at bars or go on draining dates with people you meet online--who look nothing like their photos. If you are very serious about finding someone special, there are few things better than being proactive about it by hiring a qualified professional to personally handpick, recruit, and vet potential matches for you. Many of us matchmakers, we don’t mess around; background checks are included! I am currently accepting new clients, but if we are not a “match”, I can happily refer you to one of the matchmakers in my vast international network of love professionals. If you are in the NYC area and aren’t ready to hire a matchmaker but would like to be considered for introductions, feel free to apply to my confidential matchmaking database at www.RachelRusso.com. Curious to learn more? Go ahead, email me! By the way, if you are curious about the matchmaking industry from a business perspective-and are looking for a career change in the new year-feel free to get in touch. Not only am I still hiring recruiters-and offering everyone generous commissions for referring single friends-but I am still teaching online and live classes with Matchmaking Institute. I will be teaching at The Global Love Conference in NYC this March. More info here. Meantime, as a reminder: I am offering a New Year's Special Strategy Session for singles, couples, half-couples--anyone who could use some fresh perspective for finding or keeping love. Note: I also do strategy sessions for entrepreneurs interested in matchmaking, and I am happy to extend the offer to you. My Strategy Sessions can be life-changing! And when booked before Jan 20, 2020, they are now twenty-percent off. If you wish to jumpstart your success in love and life during These Roaring Twenties, click here to learn more, and reserve your spot on my calendar today. Have a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year! |
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